The thought of establishing a regular exercise routine can be daunting. Breaking long-term habits and trying something new is never easy, and let’s be honest, sitting on the couch requires less effort than sweating on a treadmill. Fitness training does not have to be a chore. It can be fulfilling and serve as a building block for a healthier lifestyle. Before starting a full-fledged fitness program, it is best to seek the advice of a professional who can better position you for success.
Consider making an appointment with a certified fitness instructor, as fitness is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Everybody has different goals. Whether it’s building lean muscle or dropping excess pounds, the most successful fitness plans are customized for the individual.
Prior to any fitness plan customization, trainers must be aware of an individual’s physical limitations. Let’s say a client has a knee injury and their doctor recommends no high-impact exercise, we might suggest a stationary bike or elliptical machine rather than a treadmill to fulfill cardio needs. If there is a larger issue at hand, such as a heart condition, please consult your physician before beginning a fitness program.
The number of strength training and cardio machines can be intimidating for the fitness newcomer. If you are unsure about how to use a particular piece of equipment, do not hesitate to ask the nearest fitness professional. Misuse can lead to diminished returns and even serious injury. Working out with your brain is just as important as doing so with your brawn.
What is often lost in the shuffle of fitness plans and learning to use new equipment is the value of routine. According to a recent study published in the journal Health Psychology, individuals are triggered by a cue, such as hearing an alarm or working out when stressed. Repetitive behaviors, therefore, can be instrumental in helping individuals stick to an exercise plan, whether it’s early in the morning or after a long day at the office.
One of the most common issues for fitness beginners is attempting to do too much too soon, which can cause injury and both mental and physical fatigue. I often remind Planet Fitness members that since it takes a long time to get out of shape, getting into shape requires sustained dedication. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is a greater risk of cardiac events when you significantly increase physical activity. As long as you start slowly, the benefits of regular exercise far outweigh the risks. Eventually, the fruits of your labor will be evident.
I am often asked about best practices for keeping clients engaged over the course of several months and years. While there is no magic elixir for member retention, I have found that often when people cancel gym memberships, it is because they feel uninformed. Beginning a workout program without seeking the proper guidance is a recipe for a failed New Year’s resolution.
I have found that something as simple as a nod or a few words of encouragement from a fellow member can make a world of difference for a beginner. As a fitness professional, the most gratifying thing is helping individuals reach their goals.
The first steps are often the hardest ones, but the mental and physical benefits of establishing a consistent workout routine are countless. It’s a day-to-day process, but if you stick to the program, you will begin seeing results.
Planet Fitness now has eight locations in the Las Vegas/Henderson market, including a pair of recently opened gyms at the Decatur Crossing Center in Las Vegas and 260 E. Lake Mead Parkway in Henderson. For more information, visit www.planetfitness.com.